File:Large polychrome tauroctony relief, from the mithraeum of S. Stefano Rotondo, end of the 3rd century AD, Baths of Diocletian Museum, Rome (22168758335).jpg
DescriptionLarge polychrome tauroctony relief, from the mithraeum of S. Stefano Rotondo, end of the 3rd century AD, Baths of Diocletian Museum, Rome (22168758335).jpg
Under the church there is a 2nd-century mithraeum, related to the presence of the barracks of Roman soldiers in the neighbourhood. The cult of Mithras was especially popular among soldiers. The remains of Castra Peregrinorum, the barracks of the peregrini, officials detached for special service to the capital from the provincial armies, were found right under Santo Stefano Rotondo. The mithraeum belonged to Castra Peregrinorum but it was probably also attended by the soldiers of Cohors V Vigilum, whose barracks stood nearby on the other side of Via della Navicella.
Top left: Sun-god Sol or Helios in a quadriga drawn by four horses
Top right: Moon Goddess Luna or Selene in a biga drawn by two bulls or oxen
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